Learning Benefits

Read lots of books about bugs and insects, and go on an insect hunt. Tell your child that scientists who study insects are called entomologists and that he is going to be one for the day. Talk about the fact that most insects have three body parts (head, abdomen, and thorax) and that most have six legs. On your hunt, use a magnifying glass to narrow your child's field of vision so he can see the individual body parts.

Developmental Note:

Some children are afraid of bugs. Be respectful and let them observe with you or a friend. Children of this age may become so absorbed in the activity that they make more legs or body parts than needed. This is totally acceptable. Talk with your child about the various body parts and legs, and reinforce the vocabulary you are teaching. It is the concepts that are important, not the end product.

Talk about your findings. What insects did your child discover in the books or on the hunt? Ants, grasshoppers, butterflies, bees, dragonflies, worms, crickets?

Make available the clay and art materials, and invite your child to create an insect of her choice. Encourage her to be creative, trying different colors and forms.